The Bernard Betel Centre has always been a place where community flourishes, and the efforts of people like Sheila Abraham remind us why. At 88 years old, Sheila—known affectionately as Ima—is more than just a volunteer at the Bernard Betel Centre, she’s an inspiration. As a Holocaust survivor, Sheila’s life has been a testament to resilience, and her most recent act of giving back is one that touched the hearts of many.
When Sheila learned about the Bernard Betel Centre’s new fundraising initiative Supporting Our Seniors (SOS): Meals Initiative, she knew she had to act. The SOS initiative raises funds for the Bernard Betel Centre Meals on Wheels program which, for the past four years, has been dedicated to providing nutritious and affordable meals to vulnerable seniors and Holocaust survivors who live in poverty. The initiative addresses food insecurity and ensures that seniors have access to healthy, delicious, and lifesaving meals. For Sheila, this was more than just a program. It was a mission to restore dignity and hope to her community.
Determined to make a difference, Sheila launched her own fundraiser on CanadaHelps, sharing her personal story and rallying friends, family, and the wider community to join her cause. Her heartfelt appeal resonated deeply:
“Every dollar counts, and your generosity will make a tangible difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much.”
The response was incredible. In just over a month, Sheila’s passion and sincerity inspired donations totaling over $3,800 from close to 50 supporters. This remarkable amount will directly support the SOS initiative, ensuring these vulnerable seniors continue to receive nourishing meals and the sense of connection that comes with them.
Sheila’s efforts remind us all of the power of community and the impact of one person’s determination to make a difference. Her story is a shining example of how Sheila continues to live a life of purpose, compassion, and generosity.
The Bernard Betel Centre is proud to celebrate Sheila’s accomplishment and is deeply grateful to Shelia and to everyone who supported her fundraiser. Together, we’re not just feeding seniors in need, we’re nurturing hearts, lifting spirits, and building a stronger, more connected community.
Thank you Shelia, for your inspiration, commitment, and dedication to the Bernard Betel Centre and the seniors that we serve.
To learn more about third party fundraising, please visit www.betelcentre.org/third-party-fundraising. If you’d like to set up your own personal online fundraising page through CanadaHelps, use the following steps to help you set that up: Setting up a Personal Fundraising Page on CanadaHelps.
